Somalis Mobilize in Massive Show of Support for Anti-Al-Shabaab Campaign

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: A massive public rally in Mogadishu’s Hodan district has injected fresh energy into Somalia’s national campaign against Al-Shabaab, with hundreds of citizens voicing unwavering support for the government’s offensive to dismantle the extremist group.

Held at the Taleex intersection on Sunday night, the demonstration brought together survivors of terrorist attacks, youth activists, and public figures in a bold display of unity and defiance.

The event comes amid a renewed nationwide push by Somali security forces to reclaim territories and weaken Al-Shabaab’s grip on key regions.

“This isn’t just a rally—this is a declaration of war by the people,” said one young attendee who lost his father in the deadly 2017 Zoobe bombing. “We will not stand by. We are ready to protect our country.”

The emotional evening featured patriotic performances and speeches calling for continued civilian mobilization against terrorism. Well-known singer Xaawo Daggan declared, “The people have awakened. We will liberate our nation from Al-Shabaab’s terror.” Influencer Bilaal Bulshaawi added, “Somali youth, especially on TikTok, are ready to stand with our soldiers.”

The rally marks a growing shift in Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts, moving beyond military operations to include civilian resistance and grassroots activism, signaling to Al-Shabaab that it faces both an armed and ideological defeat.